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González Á, López-Borrego S, Sandúa A, Vales-Gomez M, Alegre E. Extracellular vesicles in cancer: challenges and opportunities for clinical laboratories. Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2024; 61:435-457. [PMID: 38361287 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2024.2309935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are nano-sized particles secreted by most cells. They transport different types of biomolecules (nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids) characteristic of their tissue or cellular origin that can mediate long-distance intercellular communication. In the case of cancer, EVs participate in tumor progression by modifying the tumor microenvironment, favoring immune tolerance and metastasis development. Consequently, EVs have great potential in liquid biopsy for cancer diagnosis, prognosis and follow-up. In addition, EVs could have a role in cancer treatment as a targeted drug delivery system. The intense research in the EV field has resulted in hundreds of patents and the creation of biomedical companies. However, methodological issues and heterogeneity in EV composition have hampered the advancement of EV validation trials and the development of EV-based diagnostic and therapeutic products. Consequently, only a few EV biomarkers have moved from research to clinical laboratories, such as the ExoDx Prostate IntelliScore (EPI) test, a CLIA/FDA-approved EV prostate cancer diagnostic test. In addition, the number of large-scale multicenter studies that would clearly define biomarker performance is limited. In this review, we will critically describe the different types of EVs, the methods for their enrichment and characterization, and their biological role in cancer. Then, we will specially focus on the parameters to be considered for the translation of EV biology to the clinic laboratory, the advances already made in the field of EVs related to cancer diagnosis and treatment, and the issues still pending to be solved before EVs could be used as a routine tool in oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro González
- Service of Biochemistry, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Silvia López-Borrego
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council, Madrid, Spain
| | - Amaia Sandúa
- Service of Biochemistry, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Mar Vales-Gomez
- Department of Immunology and Oncology, National Centre for Biotechnology, Spanish National Research Council, Madrid, Spain
| | - Estibaliz Alegre
- Service of Biochemistry, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
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Lin H, Li B, Guo J, Mai X, Yu H, Pan W, Wu B, Liu W, Zhong M, Liao T, Zhang Y, Situ B, Yan X, Liu Y, Liu C, Zheng L. Simultaneous detection of membrane protein and mRNA at single extracellular vesicle level by droplet microfluidics for cancer diagnosis. J Adv Res 2024:S2090-1232(24)00369-2. [PMID: 39197817 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2024.08.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Simultaneous detection of proteins and mRNA within a single extracellular vesicle (EV) enables comprehensive analysis of specific EVs subpopulations, significantly advancing cancer diagnostics. However, developing a sensitive and user-friendly approach for simultaneously detecting multidimensional biomarkers in single EV is still challenging. OBJECTIVES To facilitate the analysis of multidimensional biomarkers in EVs and boost its clinical application, we present a versatile droplet digital system facilitating the concurrent detection of membrane proteins and mRNA at the single EV level with high sensitivity and specificity. METHODS The antibody-DNA conjugates were firstly prepared for EVs protein biomarkers recognition and signal transformation. Coupling with the assembled triplex droplet digital PCR system, a versatile droplet digital analysis assay for simultaneous detection of membrane protein and mRNA at a single EV level was developed. RESULTS Our new droplet digital system displayed high sensitivity and specificity. Additionally, its clinical application was validated in a breast cancer cohort. As expected, this assay has demonstrated superior performance in distinguishing breast cancer from healthy individuals and benign controls through combined detection of EVs protein and mRNA markers compared to any single kind marker detections, especially for patients with breast cancer at early stage (AUC=0.9229). CONCLUSION Consequently, this study proposes a promising strategy for accurately identifying and analyzing specific EV subgroups through the co-detection of proteins and mRNA at the single EV level, holding significant potential for future clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huixian Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Bo Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jingyun Guo
- Breast Center, Department of General Surgery, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xueying Mai
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Haiyang Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Weilun Pan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Bodeng Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Mingzhen Zhong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Tong Liao
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Bo Situ
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiaohui Yan
- Medical Research Center, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yifan Liu
- School of Physical Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai 201210, China.
| | - Chunchen Liu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Lei Zheng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Rapid Diagnostic Biosensors, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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Ponnarassery Chandran S, Santhi N. Case Study on Analysing the Early Disease Detection of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma in Korean Association for Clinical Oncology. Am J Clin Oncol 2024:00000421-990000000-00210. [PMID: 38963000 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000001118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most pervasive sort of pancreatic malignant growth. Due to the lack of early symptoms and effective methods for early detection and screening, the majority of patients (80% to 85%) are diagnosed with advanced metastatic or locally advanced disease, resulting in a low 5-year survival rate of 12%. The case study represents a comprehensive investigation into the intricate landscape of pancreatic cancer diagnosis within the Korean population. METHODS Grounded in epidemiological bits of knowledge, the review plans to disentangle the particular examples, commonness, and segment attributes of PDAC in Korea. By scrutinizing current diagnostic modalities, including conventional imaging techniques, molecular markers, and emerging technologies, the research seeks to evaluate the strengths and limitations of existing approaches within the Korean clinical context. Central to the study is an exploration of the collaborative initiatives spearheaded by the Association of Clinical Oncology in Korea in the domain of PDAC early detection. Analysing research projects, clinical trials, and interdisciplinary collaborations, the case study sheds light on the association's pivotal role in driving innovation and progress in oncology. RESULTS The goal is to offer a detailed analysis of how the association helps in furthering knowledge and enhancing results in the management of PDAC. The case study delves into the implications of early PDAC detection for patient outcomes, emphasizing the significance of timely interventions and tailored treatment strategies. By outlining the potential benefits and challenges associated with early diagnosis, the study aims to inform health care policies, shape clinical guidelines, and guide future research priorities. CONCLUSION Through a holistic approach, the case study endeavours to offer important experiences into the multifaceted landscape of PDAC early detection within the Korean health care system, contributing to the broader discourse on effective oncological practices and patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sijithra Ponnarassery Chandran
- Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India
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Zhao R, Deng X, Tang Y, Yang X, Ge Z, Wang D, Shen Y, Jiang L, Lin W, Zheng C, Wang G. Mitigating Critical Peripheral Nerve Deficit Therapy with Reactive Oxygen Species/Ca 2+-Responsive Dynamic Hydrogel-Mediated mRNA Delivery. ACS NANO 2024; 18:16556-16576. [PMID: 38889128 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c13102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Critical peripheral nerve deficiencies present as one of the most formidable conundrums in the realm of clinical medicine, frequently culminating in structural degradation and derangement of the neuromuscular apparatus. Engineered extracellular vesicles (EVs) exhibit the potential to ameliorate nerve impairments. However, the advent of Wallerian degeneration (WD), an inexorable phenomenon that ensues post peripheral nerve injury, serves as an insurmountable impediment to the direct therapeutic efficacy of EVs. In this investigation, we have fashioned a dynamic network for the conveyance of PTEN-induced kinase 1 (PINK1) mRNA (E-EV-P@HPCEP) using an adaptive hydrogel with reactive oxygen species (ROS)/Ca2+ responsive ability as the vehicle, bearing dual-targeted, engineered EVs. This intricate system is to precisely deliver PINK1 to senescent Schwann cells (SCs) while concurrently orchestrating a transformation in the inflammatory-senescent milieu following injury, thereby stymying the progression of WD in peripheral nerve fibers through the stimulation of autophagy within the mitochondria of the injured cells and the maintenance of mitochondrial mass equilibrium. WD, conventionally regarded as an inexorable process, E-EV-P@HPCEP achieved functionalized EV targeting, orchestrating a dual-response dynamic release mechanism via boronate ester bonds and calcium chelation, effectuating an enhancement in the inflammatory-senescent microenvironment, which expedites the therapeutic management of nerve deficiencies and augments the overall reparative outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renliang Zhao
- Orthopedics Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
- Trauma Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Xiangtian Deng
- Orthopedics Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
- Trauma Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yunfeng Tang
- Head & Neck Oncology Ward, Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Cancer Center, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Xiaozhong Yang
- Orthopedics Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
- Trauma Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Zilu Ge
- Orthopedics Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
- Trauma Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Dong Wang
- Orthopedics Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
- Trauma Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Yifan Shen
- Spine lab, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310003, China
| | - Lianghua Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic Trauma, The First People's Hospital of Kunshan affiliated with Jiangsu University, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215300, P. R. China
| | - Wei Lin
- Department of Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
| | - Cheng Zheng
- National Engineering Research Center for Biomaterials, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, P. R. China
| | - Guanglin Wang
- Orthopedics Research Institute, Department of Orthopedics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
- Trauma Medical Center, Department of Orthopedics Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, P. R. China
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Gu A, Li J, Qiu S, Hao S, Yue ZY, Zhai S, Li MY, Liu Y. Pancreatic cancer environment: from patient-derived models to single-cell omics. Mol Omics 2024; 20:220-233. [PMID: 38414408 DOI: 10.1039/d3mo00250k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a highly malignant cancer characterized by poor prognosis, high heterogeneity, and intricate heterocellular systems. Selecting an appropriate experimental model for studying its progression and treatment is crucial. Patient-derived models provide a more accurate representation of tumor heterogeneity and complexity compared to cell line-derived models. This review initially presents relevant patient-derived models, including patient-derived xenografts (PDXs), patient-derived organoids (PDOs), and patient-derived explants (PDEs), which are essential for studying cell communication and pancreatic cancer progression. We have emphasized the utilization of these models in comprehending intricate intercellular communication, drug responsiveness, mechanisms underlying tumor growth, expediting drug discovery, and enabling personalized medical approaches. Additionally, we have comprehensively summarized single-cell analyses of these models to enhance comprehension of intercellular communication among tumor cells, drug response mechanisms, and individual patient sensitivities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Gu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Jiatong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Shimei Qiu
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology, Shanghai 200093, P. R. China
| | - Shenglin Hao
- Department of Functional Neurosurgery, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Medical School Affiliated Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhu-Ying Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Shuyang Zhai
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Meng-Yao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
| | - Yingbin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Shanghai Cancer Institute, Department of Biliary-Pancreatic Surgery, Renji Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, P. R. China.
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Tan L, Zhou J, Nie Z, Li D, Wang B. EPHB2 as a key mediator of glioma progression: Insights from microenvironmental receptor ligand-related prognostic gene signature. Genomics 2024; 116:110799. [PMID: 38286348 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2024.110799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Malignant gliomas, characterized by pronounced heterogeneity, a complex microenvironment, and a propensity for relapse and drug resistaniguree, pose significant challenges in oncology. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of Ligand and Receptor related genes (LRRGs) within the glioma microenvironment. An intersection of 71 ligand-related genes (LRGs) and 2628 receptor-related genes (RRGs) yielded a total of 69 LRRGs. Utilizing the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis, a prognostic RiskScore model comprising 28 LRRGs was constructed. The model demonstrated robust prognostic value, further validated in the TCGA-GBMLGG dataset. Subsequent analyses included differential gene expression, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), gene set enrichment (GSEA), and gene set variation (GSVA) within RiskScore groups. Additionally, evaluations of PPI, mRNA-RBP, mRNA-TF, and mRNA-drug interaction networks were conducted. Four hub genes were identified through differential expression analysis of the 28 LRRGs across various GSE datasets. A multivariate Cox prognostic model was constructed for nomogram analysis, gene mutation analysis, and related expression distribution. This study underscores the role of LRRGs in intercellular communication within the glioma microenvironment and identifies four hub genes crucial for prognostic assessment in clinical glioma patients. These findings offer a potential evaluation framework for glioma patients, enhancing our understanding of the disease and informing future therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Tan
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Jingyuan Zhou
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Zhenyu Nie
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Ding Li
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China
| | - Bing Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, China.
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Hassanpour M, Salybekov AA. Whispers in the Blood: Leveraging MicroRNAs for Unveiling Autologous Blood Doping in Athletes. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:249. [PMID: 38203416 PMCID: PMC10779309 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of autologous blood transfusions (ABTs) presents a formidable challenge in maintaining fair competition in sports, as it significantly enhances hemoglobin mass and oxygen capacity. In recognizing ABT as a prohibited form of doping, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) mandates stringent detection methodologies. While current methods effectively identify homologous erythrocyte transfusions, a critical gap persists in detecting autologous transfusions. The gold standard practice of longitudinally monitoring hematological markers exhibits promise but is encumbered by limitations. Despite its potential, instances of blood doping often go undetected due to the absence of definitive verification processes. Moreover, some cases remain unpenalized due to conservative athlete-sanctioning approaches. This gap underscores the imperative need for a more reliable and comprehensive detection method capable of unequivocally differentiating autologous transfusions, addressing the challenges faced in accurately identifying such prohibited practices. The development of an advanced detection methodology is crucial to uphold the integrity of anti-doping measures, effectively identifying and penalizing instances of autologous blood transfusion. This, in turn, safeguards the fairness and equality essential to competitive sports. Our review tackles this critical gap by harnessing the potential of microRNAs in ABT doping detection. We aim to summarize alterations in the total microRNA profiles of erythrocyte concentrates during storage and explore the viability of observing these changes post-transfusion. This innovative approach opens avenues for anti-doping technologies and commercialization, positioning it as a cornerstone in the ongoing fight against doping in sports and beyond. The significance of developing a robust detection method cannot be overstated, as it ensures the credibility of anti-doping efforts and promotes a level playing field for all athletes.
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Vahabi M, Comandatore A, Centra C, Blandino G, Morelli L, Giovannetti E. Thinking small to win big? A critical review on the potential application of extracellular vesicles for biomarker discovery and new therapeutic approaches in pancreatic cancer. Semin Cancer Biol 2023; 97:50-67. [PMID: 37956937 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2023.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an extremely deadly form of cancer, with limited progress in 5-year survival rates despite significant research efforts. The main challenges in treating PDAC include difficulties in early detection, and resistance to current therapeutic approaches due to aggressive molecular and microenvironment features. These challenges emphasize the importance of identifying clinically validated biomarkers for early detection and clinical management. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), particularly exosomes, have emerged as crucial mediators of intercellular communication by transporting molecular cargo. Recent research has unveiled their role in initiation, metastasis, and chemoresistance of PDAC. Consequently, utilizing EVs in liquid biopsies holds promise for the identification of biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and monitoring of drug efficacy. However, numerous limitations, including challenges in isolation and characterization of homogeneous EVs populations, as well as the absence of standardized protocols, can affect the reliability of studies involving EVs as biomarkers, underscoring the necessity for a prudent approach. EVs have also garnered considerable attention as a promising drug delivery system and novel therapy for tumors. The loading of biomolecules or chemical drugs into exosomes and their subsequent delivery to target cells can effectively impede tumor progression. Nevertheless, there are obstacles that must be overcome to ensure the accuracy and efficacy of therapies relying on EVs for the treatment of tumors. In this review, we examine both recent advancements and remaining obstacles, exploring the potential of utilizing EVs in biomarker discovery as well as for the development of drug delivery vehicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahrou Vahabi
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Annalisa Comandatore
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Chiara Centra
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Giovanni Blandino
- IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Oncogenomic and Epigenetic Laboratory, Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Morelli
- General Surgery Unit, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisa Giovannetti
- Department of Medical Oncology, Amsterdam UMC, VU University, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza, Pisa, Italy.
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Malhotra P, Casari I, Falasca M. Can the molecules carried by extracellular vesicles help to diagnose pancreatic cancer early? Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2023:130387. [PMID: 37236324 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2023.130387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pancreatic cancer is a deadly malignancy mainly because of its asymptomatic onset which prevents the implementation of the primary tumour's resection surgery, leading to metastatic spread resistant to chemotherapy. Early-detection of this cancer in its initial stage would represent a game changer in the fight against this disease. The few currently available biomarkers detectable in patients' body fluids lack sensitivity and specificity. SCOPE OF REVIEW The recent discovery of extracellular vesicles and their role in promoting cancer's advancement, has boosted interest in researching their cargo, to find reliable early detection biological markers. This review examines the most recent discoveries in the analysis of potential extra vesicle-carried biological markers for the early detection of pancreatic cancer. MAJOR CONCLUSIONS Despite the advantages of using extracellular vesicles for early diagnosis, and the promising findings of extracellular vesicle-carried molecules possibly functional as biomarkers, until now there are no validated markers derived from extracellular vesicles available to be used in the clinic. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE Further studies in this direction are urgently required to provide what would be a major asset for defeating pancreatic cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratibha Malhotra
- Metabolic Signalling Group, Curtin Medical School, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Ilaria Casari
- Metabolic Signalling Group, Curtin Medical School, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
| | - Marco Falasca
- Metabolic Signalling Group, Curtin Medical School, Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia.
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